Do you ever feel like improving your inner balance, strengthening your outer body, or having them both? Then you might be tired of looking for medicines and supplements which can attend to all your needs. You don't have to look any further because we have all your answers.
You can get all the benefits with just two ingredients: adaptogens and collagen. These are naturally occurring compounds that have benefited us humans throughout our lifetime.
Now, you might be wondering, “What are Adaptogens and collagens?” These naturally occurring compounds can be intriguing to all. You might be surprised to know that these two ingredients have benefited humans for centuries. If you want to know more about them, then this article is just for you. Keep reading to find out how you can incorporate them into your lifestyle.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are the natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and promote balance and resistance. These are plant or mushroom-based and have been used in traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, for centuries.
How do Adaptogens Work?
Adaptogens interact with the body’s hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathoadrenal system and maintain their stability. The HPA axis, which is the set of interactions among three endocrine glands, hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal, are the main causes of stress reduction. This helps your body to maintain a balanced state called homeostasis.
Benefits of Adaptogens
Adaptogens are known for their broad range of health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of incorporating adaptogens into your routine:
1. Stress Reduction
Adaptogens regulate the release of cortisol, which is the primary stress hormone, thereby reducing physical and emotional stress. They support emotional well-being and help get rid of anxiety and depression.
2. Improved Energy and Stamina
Certain adaptogens like Rhodiola and Eleuthero can enhance physical performance and stamina, which is why athletes use them a lot. They also reduce the effects of fatigue and boost your energy levels, which can help you feel more vibrant and alert throughout the day.
3. Enhanced Cognitive Function
Adaptogens such as Rhodiola and Schisandra have the ability to improve focus, memory, and mental clarity. They also support brain health and protect against oxidative stress. It also stimulates the production of nerve growth factor(NGF), which helps in the growth and maintenance of neurons.
4. Immune System Support
Adaptogens like Reishi mushroom and Holy Basil can strengthen the immune system and help the body get rid of infections and illnesses. They also have anti-inflammatory properties which support overall immune function.
Popular Adaptogens and Their Effects
Adaptogens are found in different herbs, which have different effects on the body. Here are some of the most popular adaptogens and their specific effects:
1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicines. It is known for reducing stress and anxiety by reducing cortisol levels.
It also improves cognitive function, including memory and focus, and enhances your physical performance and stamina. It also supports thyroid and adrenal health.
2. Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)
Rhodiola is a traditional herb which is used in European and Asian medicine. It is also known as golden root or Arctic root. It is an adaptogen that boosts energy levels and helps your body fight fatigue.
It enhances mental performance, including focus and clarity. It helps in improving mood and also reduces the symptoms of depression. It also helps in quicker recovery of the body.
3. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)
Holy Basil, or Tulsi, is a sacred plant in Hinduism and is also used in Ayurvedic medicines. It has been used for centuries in tea and also in rituals. Basil reduces stress and anxiety, providing a better mood.
It also supports immune function and reduces inflammation. It balances blood sugar levels, which is why it is used by diabetic patients. It promotes your longevity and overall well-being.
4. Maca (Lepidium meyenii)
Maca is a nutrient-rich root known as Peruvian ginseng. It is native to the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is known for increasing energy and stamina in the body. It supports hormonal balance and improves reproductive health. It enhances fertility and libido in mostly men. It is additionally known to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is a structural protein. It can be considered one of the primary building blocks for your skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is the most abundant protein in your body, making up about one-third of its protein composition. It provides strength, elasticity, and resilience to various tissues and organs.
Importance of Collagen
Studies have shown that the use of collagen improves the general condition of the skin, which is why it has lately become popular in skincare. Here are a few reasons why collagen is important:
1. Skin Health
Collagen provides the skin with structure, elasticity, and firmness, which helps maintain a youthful appearance and is, therefore, often used in makeup and skincare products. It helps retain moisture in the skin, which makes your skin soft. It also helps in the formation of new tissue, which supports the skin's natural healing process.
2. Joint Health
Collagen is a major component of cartilage, which protects joints. If your body has adequate levels of collagen, it can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce the risk of degenerative joint disorders like osteoarthritis. It can also reduce joint pain and inflammation and thus improve mobility.
3. Bone Strength
Collagen provides structure to bones and contributes to their strength and density. It helps prevent bone loss and conditions like osteoporosis. It also helps regenerate and repair bones and thus heal fractures or other injuries.
4. Muscle Mass and Strength
Collagen is important for maintaining the structure and function of muscles. It helps prevent muscle loss, especially in older people. It also helps in the repair and growth of muscles, which is beneficial for recovery after physical activities like exercise.
What Causes Collagen Loss?
Although it is abundant in the human body, collagen production can decline as early as the mid-20s. It can then cause the skin to get thinner and less elastic. Exposure to UV rays can also damage collagen fibers, causing wrinkles and skin discoloration. Poor diet, smoking, and environmental pollution can all be a factor in the loss of collagen.
While you can prevent going out in the sun or changing your diet, it still wouldn't stop your body from declining collagen production. Although, you can always find ways to incorporate external collagen into your body.
How to incorporate Adaptogens and Collagen in Your Diet?
Adaptogens and collagens can be taken together to double the benefits of your diet. Here are a few ways to incorporate them together:
1. Matcha Green Tea
A blend of adaptogenic mushrooms and hydrolyzed collagen peptides in a Mushroom Matcha Tea can be a vibrant, positive drink. Your mornings can get super refreshing with this easy-to-make tea. All you have to do is add water and milk to the premix and enjoy the deliciousness of this healthy treat.
2. Adaptogens and Collagen Smoothie
A smoothie can be an easy and effective way to incorporate adaptogens and collagens together. Add one scoop of collagen peptides with one teaspoon of ashwagandha and maca powder, which are adaptogenic herbs, to a smoothie of your choice.
3. Adaptogen Infused Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in collagen. Adding two cups of bone broth with one teaspoon of reishi mushroom powder and one teaspoon of holy basil powder can give you the benefits of both collagens and adaptogens. This is also very easy to make and does not need any additional ingredients.
4. Adaptogen Enhanced Yogurt Parfait
Greek yogurt contains collagen-boosting amino acids. To Greek yogurt, add a tablespoon of collagen peptides and a tablespoon of maca powder and top it with some berries. It can be such a quick way to add a mind refresher with the properties of both adaptogens and collagens in your diet.
Conclusion
Both adaptogens and collagen have many benefits, and you can enjoy them all by incorporating them together. Taking supplements regularly, using skincare products with both of these compounds combined and adding them to teas and recipes can all be a great way to benefit from both.
Although, you must first know what your body wants. Taking a healthy approach would be by understanding what each of these compounds can do to your body. Also, remember to take the advice of doctors to prevent any adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Q1. Who should not take Adaptogens?
People who have autoimmune diseases, are pregnant or breastfeeding women or are on certain medications like blood thinners should avoid adaptogens without consulting a doctor first.
Q2. What are the benefits of collagen for women?
Collagen can be beneficial for women since it is known for its skin elasticity and hydration properties. It can reduce wrinkles and promote a youthful appearance. It also strengthens hair and nails and helps their growth.
Q3. Are Adaptogens safe?
Adaptogens are generally considered safe for most people when used as directed. However, if you have health conditions or are taking certain medications, you should consult a healthcare professional first before using them to avoid any adverse effects.
Q4. What are the benefits of adaptogen in skincare?
Adaptogens have anti-inflammatory effects, enhance skin barrier function, and regulate sebum production. They help reduce redness and promote resilience against environmental stressors.
Q5. Does collagen have side effects?
Collagen supplements can sometimes have side effects, although they aren't common. Some people may experience mild digestive symptoms like bloating or heartburn.
